Security Update and Actions Appropriated – message from WALLINGFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

WALLINGFORD PUBLIC SCHOOLS

142 HOPE HILL ROAD

WALLINGFORD, CONNECTICUT 06492

TELEPHONE (203) 949-6500

FAX # (203) 949-6550

Mission: To inspire, educate and support all students as they discover and pursue their personal best.

SUPERINTENDENT Salvatore F. Menzo, Ed.D  Ext. 6509

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT Ellen Cohn – Instruction Ext. 6506

ASSISTANT SUPERINTENDENT Jan Guarino-Personnel Ext. 6508

January 15, 2013

Dear Parents/Guardians:

As I shared in my telephone message on Friday evening, significant time and effort has been dedicated to investigating opportunities to enhance the safety procedures and systems in our district. By reviewing all potential opportunities based on what we could do immediately, over the next six months, and more long term, I believe that an effective plan has been established. This plan could not have been developed without the help of a parent group that met with me on December 28, 2012. This group of parents, with backgrounds in security and law enforcement, provided an incredible amount of experience and insight. Following this meeting, the police and fire departments offered their feedback.

As a result of all of these efforts, the following actions have been taken.

• All existing security plans are being revised and will be reviewed prior to implementation by the police and fire departments.
• All staff will be updated based on any revisions made during this process.
• A training schedule will be implemented for staff and students.
• Identification badges will be provided for all staff including picture and last name.
• Key pads will be added to each building security system to provide a second layer of access control.
• Shades will be installed on all interior classroom windows.
• Cellular telephone repeaters will be installed in poorly covered buildings to increase communications access.
• Updates to building intercom systems will provide for outside telephone access for all teachers in every classroom.

Additional measures have been recommended in the budget process. These measures will not be specifically explained to maintain their security integrity.

I ask that everyone continues to follow the visitor procedures at our schools. In addition, if you are planning to visit a school, please try to call ahead to alert the main office. Thank you for your continued support and cooperation.

Sincerely,

Salvatore F. Menzo, Ed.D.
Superintendent